ENCYCLOPEDIA 4U .com



Encyclopedia Home Page

Google
  Web Encyclopedia4u.com

 

Alcestis

A princess in Greek mythology, Alcestis ("might of the home") was known for her love for her husband. Their story was popularised in Euripedes's drama by the title "Alcestis."

Apollo was, at one point, banned from Olympus for nine years. During this time he served as a shepherd for King Admetus of Pherae in Thessaly. Since Admetus treated Apollo well, the god promised him that when it came time for King Admetus to die, another would be allowed to take his place. Admetus then fell in love with Alcestis. Her father, though, King Pelias would only give permission if Admetus rode a chariot pulled by lions and boars and other wild animals. Apollo helped Admetus accomplish this and the pair wed. When it did indeed come time for Admetus to die, Alcestis agreed to die for him. Heracles intervened and both of the pair were allowed to live.





Content on this web site is provided for informational purposes only. We accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by any person resulting from information published on this site. We encourage you to verify any critical information with the relevant authorities.



Copyright © 2005 Par Web Solutions All Rights reserved.
| Privacy

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Alcestis".